New Biomass Energy makes third shipment to Europe

By Chris Hanson | February 04, 2013

On Jan. 29, New Biomass Energy LLC announced its third shipment of 4,000 tons of torrefied wood pellets to Europe.

“We see our shipments of thousands of tons during this past year as a great achievement, not only for our company, but for the torrefaction industry as a whole,” said Mike White, New Biomass Energy executive vice president. “We believe torrefied wood pellets are a significant alternative energy option and we’re excited to help move the industry forward.”

Torrified pellets, made from roasting biomass at high temperatures in an oxygen deprived environment, are known for being superior to the standard, industrial wood pellets. Due to torrefaction, the pellets burn and grind similar to coal, producing more energy than standard wood pellets. According to New Biomass Energy, one coal company was able to utilize 70 percent of the torrefied pellets and still run at near capacity.

To meet the ever-growing demand from Europe, New Biomass is currently expanding its plant in Quintman, Miss. The expansion will increase capacity from 150,000 to 250,000 tons. According to Neal Smaler, president of New Biomass Energy, the expansion is expected to be complete in 2013.